Newman was top gator man

To borrow a bit his lyric-- Jimmy C. Newman was the “top gator man” until he died.
The Mamou native and long-time Grand Ole Opry star died Saturday in Nashville, Tenn. He was 87.
According to a press release, services will be Wednesday.
Newman, who said the “C” stood for Cajun, made his first record in 1946, singing in his native French Cajun.
He soon formed his own band and blended country music with his Cajun heritage.
He began singing in both French and English, adding as much steel guitar as accordion to his repertoire. He signed a deal with Dot Records in 1953 and had his first big hit with “Cry, Cry Darling” the following year.
Other chart successes that followed included “Daydreamin’,” “D.J. for a Day,” “Blue Darlin’,” “Seasons of My Heart,” “Diggy Liggy Lo” and “A Fallen Star,” which not only hit Number Two on the country charts, but also crossed over to the Top 25 of the pop charts.
From 1954-1970, Newman had 33 singles on the Billboard country chart. What was largely considered his signature song was “Alligator Man,” which he frequently sang on the Grand Ole Opry stage.
The singer was invited to become a member of the coveted country institution in 1956 and was a regular Opry performer until his death.
Newman and his band, Cajun Country performed at the Opry as late as earlier this month.
Newman was a member of the Cajun Hall of Fame and North American Country Music Association’s International Hall of Fame.
Survivors include his wife of more than 60 years, Mae.